The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 directs the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to establish the Bright Tomorrow Lighting Prize (L Prize) competition to spur development of ultra-efficient solid-state lighting products to replace the common light bulb.

The legislation challenges manufacturers to develop replacement technologies for two of today's most widely used and inefficient technologies: 60W incandescent lamps and PAR 38 halogen lamps. It also calls for development of a "21st Century Lamp" that delivers more than 150 lm/W. The L Prize for 60W Incandescent Replacement Lamp category was awarded in August 2011 to Philips.

PAR 38 Halogen Replacement Lamp requirements:

More than 123 lm/W

Less than 11 watts

More than 1,350 lumens

More than 25,000 hour life

More than 90 CRI

Between 2700–3000 K CCT

21st Century Lamp requirements:

To be defined

As a proponent of energy-efficiency, our support in this effort is critical to help accelerate the shift to these high-performance lamps. We have committed to promote and develop markets for winning L Prize products through incentives, field testing, collaborative marketing and educational campaigns, retail partnerships, and demonstrations.